A parotid neoplasm is a tumor that grows in the parotid salivary gland, located in front of the ear. Most cases are noncancerous, but malignant tumors can cause pain and paralysis. Diagnosis involves examining the tumor and removing it for evaluation. Prognosis depends on whether the tumor is benign or malignant.
A parotid neoplasm is a type of tumor, or abnormal growth, arising from the parotid salivary gland. The parotid gland sits in front of the ear and there are two glands, one on each side of the head. Of all the salivary glands, the parotid glands are most frequently affected by malignancy, or abnormal cell growth. In most cases, a parotid neoplasm turns out to be a noncancerous or benign tumor. A malignant tumor is less common, and only about 20% of parotid neoplasms turn out to be cancer.
There may be few symptoms associated with a parotid neoplasm. Often, the only sign may be a painless lump on the cheek. A lump that grows slowly over a long period is more likely to be benign. Malignant parotid neoplasms can be attached to the skin and surrounding structures. A skin ulcer may develop on the tumor, which may feel very hard.
Sometimes pain is felt and this can be a sign of malignancy where a tumor is affecting a nearby nerve. Pain doesn’t necessarily indicate cancer because other conditions, such as infections, can also cause a painful parotid gland. In cases where a malignant tumor is invading a nerve, this can sometimes cause part of the face to become paralysed.
Diagnosing a parotid neoplasm involves examining the tumor and asking the patient about its history. A sample of cancer cells can be taken using a fine needle. These can then be inspected using a microscope. Imaging scans, using technologies such as computed tomography (CT), can help establish a diagnosis. The most common type of benign parotid neoplasm is known as pleomorphic adenoma, while the most frequent malignant tumor is called mucoepidermoid carcinoma.
In many cases, treatment of a parotid neoplasm is combined with diagnosis, and the entire lump is removed and evaluated for signs of cancer. The surgeon removes the tumor along with the area around the parotid gland, taking care not to damage the facial nerve that controls the muscles of facial expression. Sometimes the surgeon may use a nerve stimulator to verify that the facial nerve is intact during the operation. The outlook for a parotid neoplasm depends on whether it is benign or malignant, as a benign tumor generally leads to a successful outcome. Some types of malignant tumors have a better prognosis than others, especially if they are discovered and removed before they spread.
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